The Twenty-Ninth of May . . . .
. . . . which day is Royal Oak Day or sometimes Oak-Apple Day.
The tune is an old English jig called "The 29th of May" and commemorates on this day the restoration of the Monarchy after the Cromwellian devastation. The 29th of May was chosen as it was the birthday of King Charles II.
"Parliament had ordered the 29 of May, the King's birthday, to be for ever kept as a day of thanksgiving for our redemption from tyranny and the King's return to his Government, he entering London that day."
Wikipedia explains here why "Royal Oak" day rather than restoration day. Some of the customs surrounding the day which still remain in England are given here. Those in the mood for a longer read might want to look at what Chambers has to say about today; you can find it here.
It's all to no end,
For the times will not mend
Till the king enjoys his own again.
Labels: Regem honorificate.
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